Page 180 of Rangers Last Promise

Trigger shakes his head.

“It won't.”

Tate ignores them.

“Mara’s mother contacted Hampton. Hampton sent the photograph to bring Doc back. Vance fired the shot at the house and apparently stole Grant’s key.”

“That leaves the tavern shooting,” Mara says.

Everyone looks at Hampton.

He shakes his head.

“Not me.”

“You broke into the office later,” Tate says.

“Yes.”

“But you didn't fire through the front window?”

“No.”

“Vance again?”

“Probably.”

“Probably isn't evidence.”

“I've spent most of my adult life avoiding courtrooms.”

“That is becoming increasingly obvious.”

Mara studies the map.

“Vance has been watching us.”

“Yes,” I say.

“He knew Mom had Grant’s things.”

“Yes.”

“He knew about the key.”

“Yes.”

“But he didn't know where the lockbox was until we found it.”

Hampton leans forward.

“Which means you need to move that box.”

Sheriff Tate looks at him.

“Already did.”

Everyone turns.